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Fixture Break Brings New Possibilities
As the festive season approaches, Dream Team managers find themselves in a unique position. With only one key European match on the horizon—Chelsea facing Shamrock Rovers—until mid-January, the pause in continental competitions opens up a treasure chest of options for managers looking to optimise their squads.
This shift in the fixture landscape means players from clubs not involved in European action are now more attractive picks. Among those players is Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, priced at £5 million, who may just be the hidden gem many have overlooked.
Eberechi Eze: The Underappreciated Star
It’s no secret that selecting players from clubs like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool has been a safer bet this season, especially with their regular involvement in European tournaments. However, Eze’s situation is changing as Crystal Palace gears up for a busy schedule. With only one match per week previously, it was hard for managers to justify including him in their line-ups. Now, with Palace set to have a flurry of fixtures, Eze’s potential is back on the radar.
While his statistics—four goals and four assists—might not leap off the page, his average of 7.6 points per game is certainly noteworthy. In fact, only three midfielders can claim a better average at this stage of the season. Players like Bruno Fernandes and Luis Diaz are among those trailing behind Eze in this metric, making him a compelling option for Dream Team managers.
Bonus Points and Consistency
Eze’s ability to rack up bonus points is another reason to consider him for your squad. Despite only making 15 appearances this season, he has already accumulated 19 bonus points, a figure surpassed by just seven other midfielders. His playing style, which often sees him successfully dribble past defenders and deliver accurate crosses, lends itself well to earning those coveted bonus points.
His last outing against Manchester City saw him score just two points, but he bounced back impressively in Gameweek 13, bagging 13 points after returning from injury. This kind of resilience is what managers look for in their players.
Crystal Palace’s Upcoming Fixtures
Looking ahead, Crystal Palace’s fixtures may present challenges, particularly with a double-header against Arsenal looming. However, Eze’s consistent starting position in domestic cup competitions signals that he should get plenty of playing time, unlike many of his peers who may be rested during this busy period.
Here’s a quick look at Crystal Palace’s upcoming fixtures from Gameweek 15 to Gameweek 19:
- Gameweek 15: Crystal Palace vs. Arsenal
- Gameweek 16: Crystal Palace vs. Aston Villa
- Gameweek 17: Crystal Palace vs. Manchester United
- Gameweek 18: Crystal Palace vs. Arsenal (second leg)
- Gameweek 19: Crystal Palace vs. Tottenham Hotspur
Wider Implications for Dream Team Managers
Even if Eze doesn’t fit into your plans, the fixture shift offers a new outlook for Dream Team bosses. With several clubs not involved in European competitions, the festive period could be a goldmine for points if managers can identify the right players to invest in.
As the calendar turns and the matches come thick and fast, the opportunity to recalibrate your squad is ripe. Keep an eye on Eze and other players who may finally find their rhythm as the fixtures pile up. The festive period is always unpredictable, but with the right picks, it could be a rewarding time for Dream Team managers.
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